Tragic Shooting at Perry High School Claims Life of Ahmir Jolliff: A Story of Bullying and Loss

Accident – death – Obituary News : Ahmir Jolliff, a vibrant 11-year-old boy from Perry, Iowa, tragically lost his life on Thursday morning in a devastating school shooting. Known affectionately as “Smiley” due to his cheerful nature, Ahmir was excitedly heading back to school after the winter break, eager to see his friends. Described as an energetic whirlwind of activity, Ahmir was loved by everyone who knew him.

Ahmir’s mother, Erica Jolliff, recalled how her son couldn’t wait to get to school that day. He left a few minutes ahead of his mother and sister, who also attended the school. However, tragedy struck before classes even began when a 17-year-old student at Perry High School opened fire in the cafeteria. Ahmir, who attended the middle school connected to the high school, was shot three times and tragically succumbed to his injuries. Seven others, including the school’s principal, staff members, and students, were also wounded before the shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Erica Jolliff, devastated by the loss of her son, expressed her shock and grief. She recounted how she frantically searched for her children after authorities arrived at the school, blocking access to the complex. While she found her daughter unharmed, she couldn’t locate Ahmir. Deep down, Erica had a feeling that he was still inside the building, which later turned out to be true.

In the aftermath of the shooting, Erica was horrified to learn that friends of the shooter, identified as 17-year-old Dylan Butler, claimed he had been bullied for years without any intervention from teachers or school officials. Despite the pain of losing her own son, Erica extended her condolences to Dylan’s family, acknowledging their loss as well.

Over the weekend, a rock outside the school, previously painted white, was repainted in Perry High School’s bright blue color as a tribute to Ahmir. The rock had become a memorial site, adorned with teddy bears and flowers left by mourners paying their respects.

The shooting occurred just after 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, moments before classes were set to start. Authorities confirmed that the incident began in the cafeteria, where students from various grades were having breakfast, and then spilled outside before being contained to the north end of the school. Dylan possessed a pump-action shotgun and a small-caliber handgun, and authorities discovered a crude improvised explosive device in his belongings, which was safely rendered inert.

Friends of Dylan, as well as their mother, described him as a quiet person who had endured bullying since elementary school. Investigators are still in the process of understanding Dylan’s background and the school environment. Superintendent Clark Wicks refused to discuss whether Dylan had been bullied but assured that the district takes every bullying situation seriously and strives to maintain a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Perry, a small town of approximately 8,000 residents located about 40 miles northwest of Des Moines, was deeply shaken by the tragedy. The Perry Community School District, which includes the high school, has a student population of 1,785.

Erica Jolliff fondly remembered her son as a source of happiness and sociability. Ahmir had an incredible ability to connect with people and always wore a beaming smile that showcased his dimples. He was loved by all and had an outgoing personality that endeared him to everyone he met.

While Erica didn’t have any knowledge of Dylan’s personal situation, she expressed sympathy for him. Erica hopes that administrators will recognize the importance of checking on students’ well-being and take proactive measures to ensure their safety.

As the Perry community mourns the loss of Ahmir Jolliff, his tragic death serves as a reminder of the need for improved safety measures within the school system. Erica Jolliff prays that her son’s loss will not be in vain and that effective changes will be implemented to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future.

By Nicholas Riccardi.